Landscape Now: Beautiful Window Boxes

Frank Crandall, GoLocalWorcester Landscaping Expert

Guidlines for Container Planting Success: Now that the danger of frost has passed (we certainly hope!) it is time to plant your window boxes, planters and garden pots with sustainable annuals (and perennials) full of color and varying textures for the summer season into the fall. There are three main guidelines for planting your containers: 1. Make sure the container is of sufficient size for planting (window boxes should be at least 8” wide and deep so roots have room to grow and the soil will be able to hold enough water for the plants to thrive). The soil should be a good quality potting mix, the bottom of the container should have holes to let water pass through and a layer of crushed stone placed at the bottom of the pot or window box for drainage. 2. Choose annuals (and perennials) for color, texture, appropriate size and growing conditions (sun, partial sun or shade). 3. Aftercare will include appropriate watering, fertilizing and deadheading as needed.